One of the most important parts of a relationship between the attorney and client is the first interview that takes place between them. This is the best time for the client to get to know the attorney as well as for the attorney to gain information regarding the case.
The attorney should place himself in the shoes of the client during this interview. The meeting could be quiet intimidating for the client but they should know that the initial meeting is when the attorney should try to make client feel at ease. This is more of an ice breaking interview and engaging in small talk could help a lot.
The attorney should ask any questions which are related to the case. The answers should be taken down by the attorney and logged into an interview sheet.
Small talk is important and the attorney should take the effort to listen to the story of the client. During that time the attorney should make sure all the time is dedicated only for the client by not taking phone calls or interrupting the client except to clarify something. The attorney should also maintain eye contact since it is an effective way of showing the client that he or she is being respected and given attention
The question answering session may include questions such as when, what, why and who. The questions should be very open ended and not seem like a cross examination. If the attorney does not quite understand the client he may ask the client for further clarification. The principal behind the first interview is for the attorney to understand everything that the client wants.
Related articles
- How to Avoid Bad Questions and Answers (the-barristers-toolbox.com)
- Your Initial Client Interview I (everymanlaw.wordpress.com)
